SunEdison, Inc. and the SunEdison Foundation, announced a $5 million contribution to their philanthropic partnership with GRID Alternatives. Together, the organizations are launching a two-year initiative called RISE to connect the industry's growing demand for skilled workers with communities that need jobs, and to build a more inclusive solar workforce.

Building on the successful 2014 SunEdison and GRID Alternatives partnership to bring more women into the solar industry, the RISE initiative will provide underserved communities with solar job training and job placement through GRID Alternatives' workforce development program. The $5 million contribution is both financial and in the form of solar panels.

"This partnership is making solar more accessible for everyone in America. For lower income families, that means lower electricity bills, more money for necessities, and the opportunity to receive valuable job training," said Ahmad Chatila , President and Chief Executive Officer of SunEdison. "I'm very proud that with this contribution, SunEdison is truly helping the people who need it most."